The Best Beaches on Australia's Gold Coast

This is where it’s all happening on the Gold Coast. This 3-km stretch of beach is manned by lifeguards 365 days a year and welcomes locals and tourists alike. It’s an easy walk into the busy part of town for a spot of brunch and some shopping.

Kirra has it all: good walking paths, not too much piping hot sand to hop over to get to the water (important!), crystal clear waves and great picnic options. Pack an esky and picnic blanket, and make a day of it.

Cabarita is a part of the Tweed Coast and a little quieter than many parts of the Gold Coast. It’s surrounded by nature reserve and is home to a population of only 3000, giving it a nice coastal village feel.

In the last couple of years, Burleigh Heads has taken the Gold Coast by storm. The food and drink scene has gone wild with several breweries, boutique bakeries and great brunch spots popping up all over the place. Not to mention the perfect beach which has options for those who like to surf and those who like a quiet, protected swimming spot.

It may technically be a creek that flows into the ocean, but Tallebudgera is an aqua paradise. It’s patrolled but can be dangerous with rips at times, so be careful if you’re not a strong swimmer (or even if you are). If waves are more your thing, or you like a bit of calm and excitement at your beach, it’s a short walk to the surf beach for the best of both worlds.

Currumbin has a totally different vibe to most of the Gold Coast. It’s less glam, and a little more small-town in feel. It’s a great surf beach and home to many pros, but don’t let that stop you from joining in the fun yourself.